1. What is your ‘go to’ bible verse to get you through the day? Why is it special to you?
I actually have three verses: Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. This one is what has always gotten me through the most heart-broken places in my life, it gives me hope that no matter what lies before me, My God has my future already mapped out for me. And He has the future of my children and grandchildren in His hands.
Proverbs 15:1 (NIV) “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
I have a tendency to be upfront and it can come off as I am angry or mad. So, I am always continually trying to apply this to my life, plus I have found that it really enriches my life with all of my relationships. I grew up with a parent that used hateful and very harsh words that created anger in me. Which always leads me to John 14:27 about Peace.
John 14:27 (NIV) “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Peace and no drama means a lot to me, I choose to not allow people to rob me of my peace. God gives us peace and I choose to take it.
2. Summer delivers long hot days, hurricane season and hopefully a vacation (or two)! Share with us what your summer plans are, from vacation to what’s on your summer reading list, home project or a hobby.
Every summer, we take a family vacation, this means my son’s, their wives and children. It has grown to now about 20 of us. This year we have chosen to go to St. Augustine beach. We also, have regular family Bar-b-ques at our home with everyone. It is always about, spending family time together and creating memories with the grandchildren. I typically spend time in our garden taking care of it as it gives me peace and joy. And just relaxing by/in the pool, in the evenings and on weekends. My reading tends to be more on the side of research of history, what is facts verses fiction. We also plan on going to the mountains this fall.
3. What is it that Grace Church has, (like a secret sauce) that engaged you, and keeps you engaged, week after week?
What engages me with Grace Church, is seeing the love the parishioners have for this beautiful church and one another. The spirit of always willing to step in and help. The help Grace church members give in outreach of local organizations. It is also, about the staff. The staff works so well together, very thoughtful and considerate of each other.
4. Each of us have gifts and talents. Please share one or more of your gifts and or talents and how you could use them to help others at Grace and/or in our community.
I have the ability to be able assess situations very quickly and resolve a dilemma or problem. I can also organize and restructure areas in business and homes that are chaotic or just in need of reorganizing. I am able to plan parties and events. My grandchildren laugh at me, because they are all so artistically talented in so many different ways, I cannot even glue things together without making a mess.